Walton Reflects On Perfect Day For Promotion

Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Christian Walton reflected on a memorable day after winning promotion to the Sky Bet Championship with Wigan Athletic on Saturday afternoon.

The goalkeeper has spent the season on loan with the Latics, and Paul Cook’s team beat Fleetwood Town 4-0 over the weekend to confirm promotion - which was an experience Walton thoroughly enjoyed.

He said, “It was unreal. Couldn’t have picked a better day really, with the weather and atmosphere. The fans travelled to Fleetwood in their numbers and it was a perfect day for it.

“It was a massive relief. It brings a bit of relaxation into the camp. But now we’ve got the promotion, the main aim is to win the title now. It’s important to continue doing what we have done all season.

“Sometimes the celebrations can get the better of you, but we’ve got to remain focused and then once we have won the title, we can enjoy it as much as we want.”

Wigan needed third-placed Shrewsbury Town to slip up against Bury, and Walton commented on the atmosphere throughout the game, as the Latics sealed their return to England’s second tier.

“I had a bit of a feeling that Shrewsbury had drawn their game because of the reaction from the fans. There were a lot of Wigan fans there - I think they almost outnumbered the Fleetwood supporters.

“When Bury scored the equaliser, they did celebrate, but then it went quiet for the rest of the game, so I didn’t know what had happened.

“We had to wait for about 45 seconds until their game had finished, but once their result was confirmed, the crowd went mental and it was a great experience from then on.”

With three matches remaining, the Latics are now focused on securing the League One title, and Walton is eager to top off an enjoyable loan spell with a league winners’ medal.

“For me personally, it would be an unbelievable achievement. I was out for three months of the season and had to work hard to get back as soon as I could. But it’s all paid off, so I’m delighted.

“I enjoyed my time at Luton, but obviously coming here and winning promotion has been unbelievable. From day one, I’ve enjoyed my time with this team.

“Winning games just breeds positivity around the place - there’s no better feeling than being in a winning team most weeks. It’s been a really good experience for me and will stand me in good stead.”